I am 29 weeks pregnant. I have never been under so much stress in my life. I am a single mother with no help at all. I just found out that my mother and my boyfriend slept together. (I know jerry springer) I never thought this would happen to me. I mean come on it's my own mother. Anyways I can do everything on my own now. I just don't really know how much a baby really cost. Everybody says they are expensive what does that really mean? I know I have to think about diapers, formal, clothes, and bathing products. But is there any big things money wise I am missing? (Besides day care.) I am just so scared I won't have enough money with my bills. I really don't have anybody at all to help. I don't have any family. Besides my mom. And I really don't consider her my mom right now. I know this is long maybe it doesn't make sense. But my main question is: How much does a baby cost? Thank you so much for taking the time to even read this!

Babies born healthy to a healthy mom don't cost that much at first as long as you BUDGET. Apply for assistance with child care and if you don't qualify try nanny share, in home day cares or a stay at home mom willing to watch yours as well.

To budget you can breastfeed and avoid formula costs all together (see if you qualify for WIC!), get hand me down products and dont buy anything frivilous - save save save!

The bigger the baby the more expensive they are. Think birthday parties, xmas, school supplies & other school activities and functions. Once they are up and talking, they start WANTING, lol. Also, think about pictures you may have/want done of your baby, the baby book and all the little memory savers - most of these you can find ways to save or skimp but only if you think about it and plan for it ahead of time.

The other thing is medical costs. The first year they go to the doctor almost every month to every other month for check-ups and vaccinations. If they get a cold you may have to take them back in or get a prescription. I assume you have insurance so the co-pays should be part of your budget as well. If your city does not put flouride in the water then the dr may prescribe floride for you to rub on your babies gums everyday from about 4 months to a year. If you insurance doesn't cover it, it costs about $15 a month. Co-pays & prescriptions may not seem like alot but it adds up fast so you should definetly include it. Any insurance premium you pay may go up as well once the baby is born as you will no longer be paying for an individual but for a family plan.

Cut coupons, corners and apply for assistance everywhere (you may think you dont qualify but you MAY - they also sometimes make mistakes). And don't forget to apply for child support!

Dont let the financial aspect of having the baby frighten you too much. (I know--easy for me to say) I'm sorry to hear you are under so much stress. Babies are expensive. It sounds like you have covered the majority of the big expenses. As the baby gets older, these expenses do lessen (often replaced by other expenses, but we wont go there) I breastfed my duaghter, which means free food. Also very good for baby. As they get older, they need fewer diapers and eventually will potty train. Daycare also gets less expensive as time passes, and it does pass rather quickly. Also, babies and little kids dont care about having brand new clothes, so you can find quality used clothing that will look just fine.

If you are employed and feel you can deal with these expenses, you are off to a good start. \

You should contact your local social services agency for the following:
Child support (you should not be the only one worrying about this)
Programs to help with nutrition for expectant mothers and infants. (this can help with formula if you are unable to breastfeed). There are also programs to help with daycare if you are working and still having a hard time.

Take a deep breath. You will be ok.